Bob Chapek, the former chief executive of Disney, has published a memoir accusing his predecessor and successor, Bob Iger, of orchestrating a sustained campaign to undermine his leadership. Chapek’s account sheds light on the dynamics behind his abrupt dismissal in November 2022, marking a tumultuous period for the entertainment giant amid significant challenges.

Chapek took over as Disney’s CEO in February 2020, succeeding Iger, who remained as executive chairman with oversight of the company’s creative efforts until late 2021. This unusual arrangement, often dubbed the “Battle of the Bobs” by industry observers, blurred lines of authority and, according to Chapek, severely constrained his ability to make critical decisions. Chapek contends that Iger engaged in a “relentless, three-year campaign” to weaken his position and eventually return to the helm.

The memoir recounts that Chapek was informed of his firing by Disney chairman Susan Arnold just as he was preparing to attend Elton John’s final North American concert at Dodger Stadium, an event Chapek had long anticipated. Instead of enjoying the show, he was removed and replaced by Iger. Chapek describes the experience as “cruel and unfair” and suggests Iger’s actions were motivated by a desire to reclaim leadership amidst the company’s struggles.

Chapek alleges that Iger had advance knowledge of the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic and stepped down strategically to avoid managing the ensuing fallout, including park closures and layoffs. While Chapek names unnamed government and industry insiders as sources, he acknowledges a lack of concrete evidence and states that only Iger can confirm this claim.

During his nearly three-year tenure, Chapek faced numerous difficulties, including the fallout from the simultaneous theatrical and streaming release of “Black Widow,” which led to a high-profile lawsuit from actress Scarlett Johansson. Chapek claims that Iger approved Disney’s public response to the lawsuit and that he bore most of the backlash without sufficient support. He also describes being excluded from key creative decisions, such as controversies surrounding the Pixar film “Lightyear” and the live-action remake of “Snow White,” both of which faced critical and commercial challenges.

Chapek’s handling of cultural and political issues further complicated his leadership. He initially attempted a neutral stance on Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, drawing criticism from progressive voices and leading to a strained relationship with Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who retaliated by revoking Disney’s special governance rights in the county housing Walt Disney World. Chapek attributes the tightened political pressures partly to Iger’s outspoken criticism of the legislation after his retirement.

Reflecting on his background, Chapek emphasizes his pragmatic, Midwestern roots and contrasts his style with Iger’s polished Hollywood persona. He admits to lacking strong personal relationships with celebrity talent, a factor often cited in discussions of his leadership challenges.

Since leaving Disney, Chapek has avoided visiting the company’s theme parks, expressing mixed feelings about returning given his experience. Despite his criticisms, Chapek stopped short of condemning Iger outright, acknowledging the complexity of their shared history. He remains critical of how Disney’s leadership and internal politics influenced his departure, framing it as a painful but necessary account of his time at one of the world’s largest entertainment companies.